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First suspected GBS death in Maharashtra, cases in Pune surge to 101

First suspected GBS death in Maharashtra, cases in Pune surge to 101

Maharashtra is currently facing a concerning outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), with the number of confirmed cases in Pune rising to 101. This surge includes 28 new infections reported recently, and the outbreak has been linked to a suspected death in Solapur, marking the first such incident in the state related to GBS.

Suspected Death: The individual who died is believed to have contracted GBS in Pune before returning to Solapur, where he subsequently passed away. Health officials are investigating the circumstances surrounding this case.

Patient Demographics: Among the 101 patients, 68 are male and 33 are female, with a notable number of cases involving children under nine years old (19 cases). Sixteen patients are currently on ventilator support due to severe symptoms.

Health Response: The Maharashtra health department has mobilized a rapid response team to monitor and manage the situation. They have conducted surveys in over 25,578 homes to identify additional cases and possible environmental causes for the outbreak.

Authorities are investigating potential sources of infection, particularly focusing on water quality. Recent tests indicated high levels of E. coli in a well near Khadakwasla Dam, which is a primary water reservoir for Pune. Residents have been advised to boil water before consumption as a precautionary measure.

GBS is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks peripheral nerves, often triggered by bacterial or viral infections. The bacterium Campylobacter jejuni, which can cause gastrointestinal illness, has been identified in some patients’ samples and is known to be associated with GBS outbreaks globally. Treatment for GBS can be costly, with immunoglobulin injections priced at approximately ₹20,000 each.

The situation in Maharashtra regarding GBS is serious and warrants close monitoring as health officials continue their investigations into the outbreak’s origins and provide necessary care for those affected.